How do invasive species threaten local ecosystems?

Invasive species threaten local ecosystems primarily by competing with native species for resources. When an invasive species is introduced to a new environment, it often lacks natural predators or controls that would keep its population in check. This allows the invasive species to proliferate rapidly and exploit resources such as food, water, and habitat.

As they establish themselves, invasive species can outcompete native species for these limited resources. This competition can lead to a decline in native populations, restrict their growth, and even drive some species to extinction. The overall result can be a significant alteration of the ecosystem, affecting its structure, function, and native biodiversity.

In contrast, providing new resources and enhancing biodiversity are not typically consequences of invasive species. Invasive organisms usually do not coexist peacefully with native species; rather, they disrupt the existing ecological balance. Similarly, while some invasive species may temporarily increase certain native populations due to changes in dynamic, the long-term effects generally lead to poor outcomes for the ecosystem as a whole.